| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-06-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2024-12-01 | - |
| 2025-03-01 | - |
| 2025-06-01 | - |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2025-12-01 | - |
| 2026-03-01 | - |
| 2026-06-01 | - |
| 2026-09-01 | - |
| 2026-12-01 | - |
| 2027-03-01 | - |
| 2027-06-01 | - |
| 2027-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Nanobioscience equips students with knowledge and skills in nanotechnology and its applications in the life sciences. The program emphasizes the design and manipulation of nanomaterials and nano-engineered systems for biological applications, impacting medicine, healthcare, diagnostics, therapeutics, and pharmaceutical industries. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in research and development, technology development, and various sectors within the field of nanobiotechnology and related life sciences.
Program Outline
The Master of Science in Nanobioscience is a program designed to equip students with knowledge and skills in the multidisciplinary field of nanotechnology and its applications in the life sciences.
- Develop the ability to design, fabricate, characterize, and assess the performance of nanomaterials and nanosystems for biological applications.
- Foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and interdisciplinary collaboration necessary for success in nanobiotechnology research and development.
- Prepare graduates for leadership roles in a wide range of professional careers within the field of nanobiotechnology and related life sciences.
Program Description:
The program combines theoretical and hands-on learning experiences, encompassing diverse topics such as:
- Biocompatibility and Toxicology: Assessment of nanomaterials' biological impact and potential toxicity.
- Nanomedicine: Applications of nanomaterials in medicine, including diagnostics, drug delivery, and regenerative medicine.
Outline:
Program Content:
The program consists of three core components:
Foundations of Nanotechnology Course Sequence
Offers fundamental knowledge in nanotechnology, covering nanomaterials, fabrication techniques, characterization methods, and relevant applications in biosystems.
Nanobioscience Courses
Students select six credits of relevant courses, focusing on their specific areas of interest within the program.
Master's Level Research
This essential component allows students to actively engage in original research projects related to their thesis or research paper under the guidance of expert faculty.
Course Schedule:
The program typically follows a semester-based schedule, with courses offered in various formats, including lectures, seminars, and laboratory sessions. The specific course schedule may vary depending on the semester and student's individual program plan.
Individual Modules:
- Chemical Principles of Nanotechnology
- Foundations of Nanotechnology I, II, III, & IV
- Advanced Nanofabrication Techniques
- Nanobiomaterials Synthesis and Characterization
- Nanobioelectronics and Biosensors
- Nanomedicine and Drug Delivery
- Biocompatible Materials and Toxicology
- Ethics and Societal Impact of Nanotechnology Each module provides in-depth exploration of a specific area within nanobioscience, combining theoretical concepts with hands-on laboratory experiences.
- Laboratory Reports and Presentations: Evaluation of students' laboratory skills, data analysis, and scientific communication abilities through written reports and oral presentations.
- Master's Thesis or Research Paper: Comprehensive assessment of students' research abilities, including hypothesis development, experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing.
Assessment Criteria:
Grading criteria for different assessment methods vary depending on the specific course or project. Generally, assessments are based on accuracy, depth of understanding, critical thinking, analytical skills, scientific reasoning, experimental techniques, and effective communication of results.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Interactive Lectures: Engaging lectures with opportunities for student participation, interactive discussions, and clarification of complex concepts.
- Small-group Seminars: Focused discussions on specialized topics within nanobioscience, fostering in-depth analysis and critical thinking among participants.
- Laboratory Sessions: Hands-on training in advanced facilities, allowing students to develop practical skills in nanofabrication, characterization techniques, and experimental procedures.
- Mentorship and Research Guidance: Close collaboration with faculty mentors during research projects, providing personalized guidance and support throughout the research process.
Faculty:
The program is directed by faculty from the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE), renowned for their expertise in various nanobioscience research areas. The faculty members have extensive experience in teaching, research, and industry collaborations, providing students with access to cutting-edge knowledge and mentorship.
Unique Teaching Approaches:
- Collaborative Problem-solving: Encouraging collaborative learning and teamwork through project-based learning and group assignments.
- Interdisciplinary Perspective: Emphasizing the multidisciplinary nature of nanobioscience, fostering collaborations across various disciplines like chemistry, physics, biology, engineering, and medicine.
- Case-based Learning: Applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios through case studies of current research findings and industry practices.
- Guest Lectures and Industry visits: Providing exposure to diverse perspectives and real-world applications through lectures by industry professionals and visits to leading research facilities and companies.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
The program prepares graduates for diverse career paths in various sectors, including:
- Research and Development: Conducting research in academic institutions, government labs, or private companies related to nanomaterials, nanobiosensors, nanomedicine, and drug delivery systems.
- Technology Development and Commercialization: Applying nanobiotechnology expertise to develop new products, processes, and innovations within the biomedical industry.
- Pharmaceutical Industry: Contributing to the design and development of novel drug delivery systems and therapeutic agents based on nanotechnology.
- Clinical Diagnostics and Healthcare: Developing next-generation diagnostic tools, biosensors, and medical devices for early disease detection and personalized medicine.
- Academic Teaching and Research: Pursuing a career in academia to teach nanobioscience related courses and conduct research to advance the field.
Career Opportunities:
Graduates with an MS in Nanobioscience qualify for a range of positions such as:
- Research Scientist
- Nanobiologist
- Applications Engineer
- Gene Therapist
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Engineer
- Tissue Engineer
- Biomedical Engineer
- Biocompatible Materials Specialist
- Nanosafety Engineer
- Director of Research and Development
Career Outcomes:
The program boasts a successful track record in preparing graduates for rewarding careers. Graduates have secured employment in leading companies like IBM, GlobalFoundries, Samsung, Applied Materials, Tokyo Electron, ASML, Lam Research, and numerous biomedical startups. They pursue careers in various research and development roles, contributing to significant advancements in health care, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Additionally, many graduates continue their academic pursuits by enrolling in doctoral programs at prestigious institutions for further research specialization.
Other:
Available Internship and Research Opportunities:
The program provides access to numerous internship and research opportunities, allowing students to gain practical experience and build professional networks. Many of these opportunities exist through collaborations with the Albany NanoTech Complex, a world-class nanotechnology research and development center. This state-of-the-art facility provides access to advanced equipment and tools for nanofabrication, characterization, and research, enabling students to conduct high-impact research projects and gain practical skills in using sophisticated technologies.
Global Recognition:
The Master of Science in Nanobioscience is recognized internationally for its excellence in education and research. The program attracts students from diverse backgrounds, fostering a global learning environment that prepares graduates to succeed in an internationalized workforce.
